Germany's Adidas & Allbirds expand collaboration with low-carbon shoe

Each pair of Adizero X Allbirds 2.94 KG CO2E has been created with 63 per cent less emissions, the two companies said in a media release.

It will come in four new colourways including Core Black/Bliss, Cloud White/Carbon, Core Black/Acid Red and Allbirds’ exclusive colourway. Each shoe has been coloured with no dye – a method that uses the material’s natural colour to help reduce water consumption.

The midsole of the shoe is made with 17 per cent plant-based content derived from sugarcane offering a low-carbon component, developed in part with natural materials. The sockliner uses 46 per cent bio-based sugarcane content and the tongue + heel foam uses 17 per cent. The outsole, which is made with 10 per cent recycled rubber, is extremely lightweight and minimalistic. With a thickness of 1-1.2mm, it is designed to reduce the CO2 footprint compared to conventional outsoles.

Removing the torsion bar completely has saved material and resulted in a higher flexibility during the transition phase while on the run. Both the upper and the outsole construction are inspired by the Tangram Principle – a design method that creates the visual impression that the upper material and the outsoles have been put together like a puzzle of individual parts. This means that all individual parts in their entirety should achieve as little scrap as possible in production in order to reduce waste, the release added.

The upper is made with 77 per cent recycled polyester and 23 per cent natural lyocell—a fibre made from sustainably grown wood—designed to create a smooth, lightweight upper that lives up to performance expectations with a reduced carbon impact. The lining, laces and embroidery all feature 100 per cent recycled polyester.

Kimia Yaraghchian, product manager at Adidas, said: “By continuing this progressive partnership, we’re hoping to pave the way for others to break new ground in footwear and clothing. The launch of the Adizero X Allbirds 2.94 KG CO2E proves that like-minded ambition can help deliver low-carbon running shoes at scale.”

Hana Kajimura, head of sustainability at Allbirds, said: “The Adidas x Allbirds partnership has been an amazing journey, and we’re incredibly excited to get this innovative product into the hands of more consumers around the world. Expanding our collaboration to offer products in new colourways and at greater scales is a testament to how far we can move forward if we choose to work together with a partner that shares our vision.”

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)